Director: Aleya Sen
Cast: Genelia Deshmukh, Manav Kaul, Gajraj Rao, Shakti Kapoor, Sheeba Chadha, Swaroopa Ghosh, Barun Chanda, Zidane Braz
 
In Trial Period, director Aleya Sen weaves a delightful tale that explores the unconventional dynamics of a family formed under unusual circumstances. Anchored by a strong cast, including Genelia Deshmukh, Manav Kaul, and Gajraj Rao, the film manages to strike a balance between heartwarming moments and light-hearted comedy.
 
The story revolves around Ana Roy Choudhary (Genelia Deshmukh), a single mother from Delhi, who embarks on an unusual quest to find a 'new papa' for her son Romi (Zidane Braz). Romi, seeking a superhero dad like his friends, convinces his mother to try out a trial period with potential father figures. Enter PD (Manav Kaul), a Hindi-speaking History teacher from Ujjain, who, despite being a bumpkin, brings a unique charm to the family. The film navigates the clashes and comical situations arising from their diverse backgrounds, questioning whether this arrangement will last beyond the trial period.
 
While the premise may seem predictable, Sen's storytelling, though occasionally losing pace, manages to engage the audience with its heartwarming narrative. The character development is a strong suit, with each actor delivering convincing performances. Manav Kaul shines as the socially awkward yet kind rural guy, while Genelia D'Souza impresses as a sophisticated and hands-on single mom.
 
The chemistry between Kaul and D'Souza feels natural, creating a believable dynamic between their characters. Zidane Braz, as the young Romi, delivers a noteworthy performance, especially in scenes where he bonds with PD and stands up to school bullies. The supporting cast, including Shakti Kapoor, Sheeba Chadha, Gajraj Rao, Swaroopa Ghosh, and Barun Chanda, adds depth to the film with their excellent portrayals.
 
Anupam Roy's background score, infused with classical Indian elements, enhances the emotional depth of the story. The soundtrack, featuring tracks like Arko's "Dheere Dheere" and Kaushik-Guddu's rendition of the Bengali folk song "Gole Male," contributes to the film's memorable moments.
 
In conclusion, Trial Period emerges as a family entertainer that successfully balances light-hearted comedy with heartwarming moments. The film's treatment of its characters and their unique dynamics makes it a worthwhile watch, offering a refreshing take on the meaning of family and relationships.